What can I grow in La Carolina?
🇪🇸La Carolina, Andalusia, Spain
La Carolina is in hardiness zone 8b, has about 257 frost-free days a year, and gets at least 1,020 chill hours in 9 winters out of 10 and 15 in of rain a year. Best fits: almond, peach, pear, table and raisin grapes and pecan.La Carolina is in hardiness zone 8b, has about 257 frost-free days a year, and gets at least 1,020 chill hours in 9 winters out of 10 and 386 mm of rain a year. Best fits: almond, peach, pear, table and raisin grapes and pecan.
Find land with a climate like La Carolina →- Hardiness zone
- Zone 8b
- Coldest night 20°FColdest night -7°C
- Frost season
- Mar 9 – Nov 22
- Last and first frost; 257 frost-free days
- Frost-safe planting
- After Apr 10
- Past the last frost 9 years in 10
- Winter chill
- 1,020 hours
- 69 chill portions, 9 winters in 10
- Enough chill even for apples and cherries.
- Summer heat
- 5,225 °F·days2,903 °C·days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C
- Enough heat to ripen even pistachios and pecans.
- Hot days
- 65 days
- Above 95°F a yearAbove 35°C a year
- Rain
- 15 in386 mm
- Per year
- Dry season
- 5 months
- Months where rain can't keep up with the heat
- A long dry season: drought-hardy crops cope, most others need watering through it.
Assumes you water when rain falls short; Needs irrigation marks crops that need it. Shown by default because La Carolina gets under 20 in500 mm of rain a year.
Great fits (80+) 32
- 100Ideal
AlmondNeeds irrigation: scores 82 on rain alone
—
Needs irrigation: scores 82 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Nut · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 25 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 9°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -13°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 210 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 3,420 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,900 °C·days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 22–35 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 550–900 mm · covered by irrigation
Blooms in late winter, so spring frosts are the main risk. Humid springs bring disease. Mostly irrigated.
Prunus dulcis. Sources: Fadón et al. 2020, Chilling and heat requirements of temperate stone fruit trees (Prunus sp.) (Agronomy); UC ANR: Almond Production Manual; Steduto, Hsiao, Fereres & Raes 2012, Crop yield response to water (FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 66).
- 100Ideal
PeachNeeds irrigation: scores 76 on rain alone
Standard-chill (Redhaven, Elberta)
—
Needs irrigation: scores 76 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 40 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least -6°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -21°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 170 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 2,340 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,300 °C·days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 24–47 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 600–1,200 mm · covered by irrigation
Flower buds are killed around −9 °F in midwinter and by frost after bloom.Flower buds are killed around −23 °C in midwinter and by frost after bloom.
Prunus persica. Sources: Fadón et al. 2020, Chilling and heat requirements of temperate stone fruit trees (Prunus sp.) (Agronomy); FAO ECOCROP: Prunus persica.
- 100Ideal
PearNeeds irrigation: scores 76 on rain alone
Asian pear (Hosui, Shinseiki)
—
Needs irrigation: scores 76 on rain aloneBest variety: Asian pear (Hosui, Shinseiki). Also close: European pear (Bartlett, Conference) (100)
Every requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 40 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least -11°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -24°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 150 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 1,800 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,000 °C·days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 24–47 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 600–1,200 mm · covered by irrigation
Warm, humid springs raise fire blight risk.
Pyrus communis / P. pyrifolia. Sources: Luedeling 2012, Climate change impacts on winter chill for temperate fruit and nut production: a review (Scientia Horticulturae); FAO ECOCROP: Pyrus communis.
- 100Ideal
Table and raisin grapesNeeds irrigation: scores 84 on rain alone
Seedless table and raisin grapes (Flame, Crimson, Thompson Seedless)
—
Needs irrigation: scores 84 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winkler index (Apr–Oct degree days)100
Here: 4,799 °F·days · Ideal: 3,600–6,480 °F·daysHere: 2,666 °C·days · Ideal: 2,000–3,600 °C·days
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 10°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -12°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 200 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 20–28 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 500–700 mm · covered by irrigation
Want long, hot, dry summers: Winkler region IV–V and beyond, hotter than most wine grapes. Sun-dried raisins need rain-free weeks after harvest; humid late summers bring bunch rot.
Vitis vinifera. Sources: Christensen (ed.), Raisin Production Manual (UC ANR Publication 3393); Winkler, Cook, Kliewer & Lider 1974, General Viticulture (University of California Press); Steduto, Hsiao, Fereres & Raes 2012, Crop yield response to water (FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 66).
- 100Ideal
PecanNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Nut · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 30 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 0°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -18°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 210 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 4,320 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 2,400 °C·days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 30–59 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 750–1,500 mm · covered by irrigation
Needs a long, hot season to fill the nuts.
Carya illinoinensis. Sources: Wells 2017, Pecan: America's Native Nut Tree (University of Alabama Press); FAO ECOCROP: Carya illinoinensis.
- 100Ideal
WheatNeeds irrigation: scores 87 on rain alone
Spring wheat
—Plant in Mar
Mar
Needs irrigation: scores 87 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Grain · Annual · Plant in March
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 8 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 65°F · Ideal: 54–72°FHere: 18°C · Ideal: 12–22°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 42°F · Ideal: at least 32°FHere: 6°C · Ideal: at least 0°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 4.8 in · Ideal: 9.8–24 inHere: 123 mm · Ideal: 250–600 mm · covered by irrigation
In mild-winter climates spring wheat is sown in autumn and grows through the cool season.
Triticum aestivum. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Triticum aestivum; FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 33 (Doorenbos & Kassam 1979).
- 100Ideal
HempNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
Autoflowering
—Plant in Apr
Apr
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneBest variety: Autoflowering. Also close: Grain/fibre cultivars (e.g. Finola, Futura) (100), CBD / photoperiod flower (100)
Every requirement is in its ideal range.
Fiber · Annual · Plant in April
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 68°F · Ideal: 64–82°FHere: 20°C · Ideal: 18–28°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 47°F · Ideal: at least 41°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at least 5°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 3.4 in · Ideal: 14–28 inHere: 87 mm · Ideal: 350–700 mm · covered by irrigation
Grain and fibre cultivars bred at high latitudes flower too early under the short days of the tropics. Licensing rules vary by country. Autoflowering: Day-neutral: flowers on age, not day length, so it suits low latitudes and short seasons.
Cannabis sativa. Sources: Amaducci et al. 2015, Key cultivation techniques for hemp in Europe and China (Industrial Crops and Products); FAO ECOCROP: Cannabis sativa.
- 100Ideal
Canola (rapeseed)Needs irrigation: scores 83 on rain alone
Spring canola
—Plant in Mar
Mar
Needs irrigation: scores 83 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Oilseed · Annual · Plant in March
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 8 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 65°F · Ideal: 54–70°FHere: 18°C · Ideal: 12–21°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 42°F · Ideal: at least 32°FHere: 6°C · Ideal: at least 0°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 4.8 in · Ideal: 9.8–22 inHere: 123 mm · Ideal: 250–550 mm · covered by irrigation
Heat over ~86 °F at flowering cuts yield; a cool-season crop in warm climates.Heat over ~30 °C at flowering cuts yield; a cool-season crop in warm climates.
Brassica napus. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Brassica napus; Canola Council of Canada: Canola Encyclopedia.
- 100Ideal
Maize (corn)Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in May
May
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Grain · Annual · Plant in May
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 4 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 78°F · Ideal: 64–86°FHere: 25°C · Ideal: 18–30°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 54°F · Ideal: at least 50°FHere: 12°C · Ideal: at least 10°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 1.9 in · Ideal: 16–35 inHere: 49 mm · Ideal: 400–900 mm · covered by irrigation
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 1,980 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,100 °C·days
Hybrids are matched to season length by relative maturity. Heat over ~95 °F at silking hurts pollination.Hybrids are matched to season length by relative maturity. Heat over ~35 °C at silking hurts pollination.
Zea mays. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Zea mays; FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 33 (Doorenbos & Kassam 1979, Yield response to water).
- 100Ideal
SoybeanNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in May
May
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Oilseed · Annual · Plant in May
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 4 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 78°F · Ideal: 68–86°FHere: 25°C · Ideal: 20–30°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 54°F · Ideal: at least 50°FHere: 12°C · Ideal: at least 10°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 1.9 in · Ideal: 18–35 inHere: 49 mm · Ideal: 450–900 mm · covered by irrigation
Maturity groups are matched to latitude because flowering is triggered by shortening days.
Glycine max. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Glycine max; FAO Crop Water Information: soybean.
- 100Ideal
SunflowerNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in Apr
Apr
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Oilseed · Annual · Plant in April
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 4 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 72°F · Ideal: 64–82°FHere: 22°C · Ideal: 18–28°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 47°F · Ideal: at least 43°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at least 6°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 3.5 in · Ideal: 12–28 inHere: 89 mm · Ideal: 300–700 mm · covered by irrigation
Deep roots make it fairly drought tolerant.
Helianthus annuus. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Helianthus annuus; FAO Crop Water Information: sunflower.
- 100Ideal
FigNeeds irrigation: scores 82 on rain alone
—
Needs irrigation: scores 82 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 18°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -8°C
- Warmest-month average100
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 72–90°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 22–32°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 200 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 20–39 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 500–1,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Tops die back around 14 °F but roots often regrow. Rain at ripening splits fruit. Rain-fed orchards need a wet winter; in dry places figs are irrigated.Tops die back around −10 °C but roots often regrow. Rain at ripening splits fruit. Rain-fed orchards need a wet winter; in dry places figs are irrigated.
Ficus carica. Sources: UC ANR: Fig production; FAO ECOCROP: Ficus carica.
- 100Ideal
OliveNeeds irrigation: scores 84 on rain alone
—
Needs irrigation: scores 84 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 18°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -8°C
- Chill hours (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 1,020 hours · Ideal: at least 300 hours
- Warmest-month average100
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 73–86°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 23–30°C
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 3,240 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,800 °C·days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 20–35 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 500–900 mm · covered by irrigation
Needs a mild winter chill to flower well, and long warm summers to ripen. Humid summers bring olive knot and peacock spot.
Olea europaea. Sources: Connor & Fereres 2005, The physiology of adaptation and yield expression in olive (Horticultural Reviews); FAO ECOCROP: Olea europaea; Steduto, Hsiao, Fereres & Raes 2012, Crop yield response to water (FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 66).
- 100Ideal
PotatoNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in Mar
Mar
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Root crop · Annual · Plant in March
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 8 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 65°F · Ideal: 55–68°FHere: 18°C · Ideal: 13–20°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 42°F · Ideal: at least 37°FHere: 6°C · Ideal: at least 3°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 4.8 in · Ideal: 14–28 inHere: 123 mm · Ideal: 350–700 mm · covered by irrigation
Tubers form best with cool nights; above ~77 °F tuber growth stalls. In the tropics it's a highland or cool-season crop.Tubers form best with cool nights; above ~25 °C tuber growth stalls. In the tropics it's a highland or cool-season crop.
Solanum tuberosum. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Solanum tuberosum; FAO Crop Water Information: potato.
- 100Ideal
Strawberry
—Plant in Mar
Mar
Every requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Annual · Plant in March
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 8 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 60°F · Ideal: 57–75°FHere: 16°C · Ideal: 14–24°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 42°F · Ideal: at least 37°FHere: 6°C · Ideal: at least 3°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 4.4 in · Ideal: 5.9–18 inHere: 111 mm · Ideal: 150–450 mm · covered by irrigation
Grown as a short-season crop in most commercial systems; day-neutral types fruit through summer.
Fragaria × ananassa. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Fragaria × ananassa; UC ANR: Strawberry production.
- 100Ideal
Pistachio
—
Every requirement is in its ideal range.
Nut · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 58 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 10°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -12°C
- Warmest-month average100
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 79–91°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 26–33°C
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 4,860 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 2,700 °C·days
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 210 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 16–24 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 400–600 mm · covered by irrigation
Needs both a real winter chill and a long, hot, dry summer; humidity brings fungal disease.
Pistacia vera. Sources: Ferguson & Haviland (eds.), Pistachio Production Manual (UC ANR); FAO ECOCROP: Pistacia vera; Steduto, Hsiao, Fereres & Raes 2012, Crop yield response to water (FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 66).
- 100Ideal
Barley
—Plant in Mar
Mar
Every requirement is in its ideal range.
Grain · Annual · Plant in March
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 8 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 65°F · Ideal: 52–68°FHere: 18°C · Ideal: 11–20°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 42°F · Ideal: at least 32°FHere: 6°C · Ideal: at least 0°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 4.8 in · Ideal: 7.9–20 inHere: 123 mm · Ideal: 200–500 mm · covered by irrigation
The most cold- and drought-tolerant small grain; malting barley wants a cool, dry finish.
Hordeum vulgare. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Hordeum vulgare; FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 33 (Doorenbos & Kassam 1979).
- 100Ideal
TomatoNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in May
May
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Vegetable · Annual · Plant in May
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 4 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 78°F · Ideal: 64–81°FHere: 25°C · Ideal: 18–27°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 54°F · Ideal: at least 50°FHere: 12°C · Ideal: at least 10°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 1.9 in · Ideal: 9.8–24 inHere: 49 mm · Ideal: 250–600 mm · covered by irrigation
Fruit set fails when nights drop below ~50 °F or days top ~95 °F. Wet seasons bring blight.Fruit set fails when nights drop below ~10 °C or days top ~35 °C. Wet seasons bring blight.
Solanum lycopersicum. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Solanum lycopersicum; FAO Crop Water Information: tomato.
- 100Good fit
WalnutNeeds irrigation: scores 77 on rain alone
—
Needs irrigation: scores 77 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Nut · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 45 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least -8°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -22°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 180 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 2,700 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,500 °C·days
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C100
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 75 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 26–47 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 650–1,200 mm · covered by irrigation
Late-leafing varieties (Chandler) dodge spring frost. Very hot days sunburn the nuts.
Juglans regia. Sources: Luedeling 2012, Climate change impacts on winter chill for temperate fruit and nut production: a review (Scientia Horticulturae); UC ANR: Walnut Production Manual.
- 100Good fit
CitrusNeeds irrigation: scores 72 on rain alone
Satsuma mandarin (cold-hardy)
—
Needs irrigation: scores 72 on rain aloneBest variety: Satsuma mandarin (cold-hardy)
Every requirement is in its ideal range.
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 19°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -7°C
- Average temperature100
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 61–75°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 16–24°C
- Warmest-month average100
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 73–86°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 23–30°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 35–79 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 900–2,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Freezes are the deciding risk: a few hours below 27 °F damage fruit and young trees. Our cold-snap estimate is weakest in subtropical climates.Freezes are the deciding risk: a few hours below −3 °C damage fruit and young trees. Our cold-snap estimate is weakest in subtropical climates.
Citrus spp.. Sources: UF/IFAS Extension: citrus cold hardiness; FAO ECOCROP: Citrus sinensis.
- 100Good fit
SorghumNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in May
May
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Grain · Annual · Plant in May
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 3 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 78°F · Ideal: 72–91°FHere: 25°C · Ideal: 22–33°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 54°F · Ideal: at least 54°FHere: 12°C · Ideal: at least 12°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 1.9 in · Ideal: 12–28 inHere: 49 mm · Ideal: 300–700 mm · covered by irrigation
Handles heat and drought better than maize.
Sorghum bicolor. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Sorghum bicolor; FAO Crop Water Information: sorghum.
- 100Good fit
RiceNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
—Plant in Jun
Jun
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneEvery requirement is in its ideal range.
Grain · Annual · Plant in June
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 4 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 79°F · Ideal: 72–88°FHere: 26°C · Ideal: 22–31°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)100
Here: 59°F · Ideal: at least 59°FHere: 15°C · Ideal: at least 15°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 1.7 in · Ideal: 28–79 inHere: 43 mm · Ideal: 700–2,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Paddy rice is usually flooded from irrigation or monsoon rain; nights below ~59 °F at flowering cause empty grains.Paddy rice is usually flooded from irrigation or monsoon rain; nights below ~15 °C at flowering cause empty grains.
Oryza sativa. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Oryza sativa; FAO Crop Water Information: rice.
- 98Good fit
Garlic
Softneck (California Early, Silverskin)
Summers too hot
—
Best variety: Softneck (California Early, Silverskin)
Holding it back: Summers too hot: 84°F here, ideal 64–82°FSummers too hot: 29°C here, ideal 18–28°C
Vegetable · Annual
Why this score
- Coldest-month average100
Here: 46°F · Ideal: at most 54°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at most 12°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 5°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -15°C
- Warmest-month average89
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 64–82°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 18–28°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 16–39 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 400–1,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Planted in autumn and harvested in early summer; cloves need weeks below ~50 °F to form bulbs (hardnecks more than softnecks).Planted in autumn and harvested in early summer; cloves need weeks below ~10 °C to form bulbs (hardnecks more than softnecks).
Allium sativum. Sources: UC ANR: Garlic production in California; FAO ECOCROP: Allium sativum.
- 98Good fit
LavenderNeeds irrigation: scores 88 on rain alone
Lavandin (L. × intermedia, Grosso)
Summers too hot
—
Needs irrigation: scores 88 on rain aloneBest variety: Lavandin (L. × intermedia, Grosso)
Holding it back: Summers too hot: 84°F here, ideal 66–82°FSummers too hot: 29°C here, ideal 19–28°C
Herb · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 3°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -16°C
- Warmest-month average87
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 66–82°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 19–28°C
- Coldest-month average100
Here: 46°F · Ideal: at most 54°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at most 12°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 120 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 18–33 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 450–850 mm · covered by irrigation
Dislikes wet winters and humid summers more than cold. Needs sharp drainage.
Lavandula angustifolia / L. × intermedia. Sources: University extension lavender production guides (e.g. Oregon State, Washington State); FAO ECOCROP: Lavandula angustifolia.
- 98Good fit
Saffron
Summers too hot
—
Holding it back: Summers too hot: 84°F here, ideal 68–82°FSummers too hot: 29°C here, ideal 20–28°C
Herb · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 1°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -17°C
- Coldest-month average100
Here: 46°F · Ideal: 30–50°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: -1 to 10°C
- Warmest-month average87
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 68–82°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 20–28°C
- Dry-season length100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at least 2 months
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 14–28 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 350–700 mm
Corms rest through a hot, dry summer and flower in autumn. Wet summers rot them.
Crocus sativus. Sources: Gresta et al. 2008, Saffron, an alternative crop for sustainable agricultural systems (Agronomy for Sustainable Development); Kafi et al. 2006, Saffron (Crocus sativus): Production and Processing.
- 96Good fit
CottonNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
Nights too cold in the growing season · Plant in May
May
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneHolding it back: Nights too cold in the growing season: 51°F here, ideal at least 54°FNights too cold in the growing season: 11°C here, ideal at least 12°C
Fiber · Annual · Plant in May
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 1 month · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 75°F · Ideal: 72–90°FHere: 24°C · Ideal: 22–32°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)77
Here: 51°F · Ideal: at least 54°FHere: 11°C · Ideal: at least 12°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 5.0 in · Ideal: 20–39 inHere: 127 mm · Ideal: 500–1,000 mm · covered by irrigation
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 190 days
Needs a long, hot season and dry weather when bolls open.
Gossypium hirsutum. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Gossypium hirsutum; FAO Crop Water Information: cotton.
- 96Good fit
Wine grapesNeeds irrigation: scores 81 on rain alone
Hot-climate (Grenache, Zinfandel, Tempranillo)
Too hot for quality fruit
—
Needs irrigation: scores 81 on rain aloneBest variety: Hot-climate (Grenache, Zinfandel, Tempranillo)
Holding it back: Too hot for quality fruit: 4,799 °F·days here, ideal 3,420–4,680 °F·daysToo hot for quality fruit: 2,666 °C·days here, ideal 1,900–2,600 °C·days
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winkler index (Apr–Oct degree days)87
Here: 4,799 °F·days · Ideal: 3,420–4,680 °F·daysHere: 2,666 °C·days · Ideal: 1,900–2,600 °C·days
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 10°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -12°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 180 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 20–35 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 500–900 mm · covered by irrigation
Winkler regions run from I, under 2,500 °F·days, to V, over 4,000 °F·days (degree days above 50 °F, Apr–Oct). Wet summers mean mildew pressure.Winkler regions run from I, under 1,389 °C·days, to V, over 2,222 °C·days (degree days above 10 °C, Apr–Oct). Wet summers mean mildew pressure.
Vitis vinifera. Sources: Amerine & Winkler 1944, Composition and quality of musts and wines of California grapes (Hilgardia); Jones et al. 2010, Spatial analysis of climate in winegrape growing regions in the western United States (American Journal of Enology and Viticulture); Steduto, Hsiao, Fereres & Raes 2012, Crop yield response to water (FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper 66).
- 93Good fit
PeanutNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
Nights too cold in the growing season · Plant in May
May
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneHolding it back: Nights too cold in the growing season: 54°F here, ideal at least 57°FNights too cold in the growing season: 12°C here, ideal at least 14°C
Oilseed · Annual · Plant in May
Why this score
- Months it can be sown (frost-safe and warm enough)100
Here: 2 months · Ideal: at least 1 month
- Growing-season average100
Here: 77°F · Ideal: 72–86°FHere: 25°C · Ideal: 22–30°C
- Coldest growing-season night (monthly average)70
Here: 54°F · Ideal: at least 57°FHere: 12°C · Ideal: at least 14°C
- Growing-season rain100
Here: 2.9 in · Ideal: 18–35 inHere: 74 mm · Ideal: 450–900 mm · covered by irrigation
Needs warm, light soil for pods to develop underground.
Arachis hypogaea. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Arachis hypogaea; FAO Crop Water Information: groundnut.
- 92Good fit
KiwifruitNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
Too many heat-stress days
—
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneHolding it back: Too many heat-stress days: 65 days here, ideal at most 30 days
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 42 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 14°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -10°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 240 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 2,520 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,400 °C·days
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C50
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 30 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 39–79 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,000–2,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Shoots are tender to spring frost; vines need shelter from wind.
Actinidia deliciosa. Sources: Zespri / New Zealand kiwifruit growing guidance; FAO ECOCROP: Actinidia deliciosa.
- 90Good fit
Cherry
Sweet cherry (Bing, Lapins)
Too many heat-stress days
—
Best variety: Sweet cherry (Bing, Lapins). Also close: Sour / tart (Montmorency) (90)
Holding it back: Too many heat-stress days: 65 days here, ideal at most 30 days
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 60 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least -11°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -24°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 150 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 1,440 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 800 °C·days
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C42
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 30 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 20–39 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 500–1,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Rain near harvest splits sweet cherries. Spring frosts at bloom are the main yield risk.
Prunus avium / P. cerasus. Sources: Fadón et al. 2020, Chilling and heat requirements of temperate stone fruit trees (Prunus sp.) (Agronomy); FAO ECOCROP: Prunus avium.
- 86Good fit
AppleNeeds irrigation: scores 66 on rain alone
Standard-chill (Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji)
Too many heat-stress days
—
Needs irrigation: scores 66 on rain aloneHolding it back: Too many heat-stress days: 65 days here, ideal at most 10 days
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)100
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: at least 60 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least -26°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -32°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 140 days
- Degree days above 50°FDegree days above 10°C100
Here: 5,225 °F·days · Ideal: at least 1,800 °F·daysHere: 2,903 °C·days · Ideal: at least 1,000 °C·days
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C30
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 10 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 26–51 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 650–1,300 mm · covered by irrigation
Rootstock and variety set cold hardiness; the hardiest survive zone 3. Hot summers hurt colour and cause sunburn.
Malus domestica. Sources: Luedeling 2012, Climate change impacts on winter chill for temperate fruit and nut production: a review (Scientia Horticulturae); FAO ECOCROP: Malus domestica.
- 86Good fit
BlueberryNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
Rabbiteye (Tifblue, Powderblue)
Too much winter chill: blooms early into frost
—
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneBest variety: Rabbiteye (Tifblue, Powderblue)
Holding it back: Too much winter chill: blooms early into frost: 69 portions here, ideal 28–60 portions
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Winter chill (9 winters in 10)66
Here: 69 portions · Ideal: 28–60 portions
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 9°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -13°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 140 days
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C79
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 50 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 30–59 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 750–1,500 mm · covered by irrigation
Needs acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5), which climate can't tell us. Shallow roots: irrigate in dry spells.
Vaccinium corymbosum / V. virgatum. Sources: Retamales & Hancock, Blueberries (CABI, 2nd ed.); NC State Extension: blueberry chill requirements.
Worth a try (50–79) 2
- 61Marginal
Hops
Summers too hot
—
Holding it back: Summers too hot: 84°F here, ideal 63–75°FSummers too hot: 29°C here, ideal 17–24°C
Herb · Perennial
Why this score
- Longest day80
Here: 14.8 h · Ideal: at least 15.0 h
- Coldest-month average70
Here: 46°F · Ideal: at most 43°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at most 6°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least -18°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -28°C
- Frost-free days100
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 130 days
- Warmest-month average7
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 63–75°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 17–24°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 20–39 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 500–1,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Long summer days drive cone yield, which is why production clusters between 35° and 55° latitude. Needs a cold winter for dormancy.
Humulus lupulus. Sources: Neve 1991, Hops (Chapman & Hall); FAO ECOCROP: Humulus lupulus.
- 58Marginal
Date palmNeeds irrigation: scores 0 on rain alone
No dry season
—
Needs irrigation: scores 0 on rain aloneHolding it back: No dry season: 5 months here, ideal at least 8 months
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Warmest-month average53
Here: 84°F · Ideal: 88–104°FHere: 29°C · Ideal: 31–40°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)57
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 23°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -5°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: at least 59 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: at least 1,500 mm · covered by irrigation
- Dry-season length25
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at least 8 months
Fruit only ripens with intense summer heat and a long dry season; rain and humidity at ripening spoil it. Never grown on rain alone: roots need groundwater or irrigation.
Phoenix dactylifera. Sources: Zaid & de Wet 2002, Date Palm Cultivation (FAO Plant Production and Protection Paper 156); FAO ECOCROP: Phoenix dactylifera.
Won't grow here 9▸
- 0Won't grow
Avocado
Hass (Guatemalan × Mexican)
Winters get too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters get too cold: 20°F here, ideal at least 32°FWinters get too cold: -7°C here, ideal at least 0°C
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 32°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 0°C
- Average temperature100
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 61–75°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 16–24°C
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C0
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 10 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 39–71 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,000–1,800 mm · covered by irrigation
Most commercial orchards are irrigated. Needs free-draining soil; root rot in waterlogged ground. Hot dry winds at flowering cut fruit set.
Persea americana. Sources: University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: avocado production guidance; FAO ECOCROP: Persea americana.
- 0Won't grow
Banana
Winters too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters too cold: 46°F here, ideal at least 61°FWinters too cold: 8°C here, ideal at least 16°C
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest-month average0
Here: 46°F · Ideal: at least 61°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at least 16°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 41°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 5°C
- Average temperature0
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 72–86°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 22–30°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 59–102 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,500–2,600 mm · covered by irrigation
- Dry-season length100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at most 2 months · covered by irrigation
Growth stops below ~57 °F; wind tears the leaves.Growth stops below ~14 °C; wind tears the leaves.
Musa spp.. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Musa acuminata; FAO Crop Water Information: banana.
- 0Won't grow
Cacao
Winters too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters too cold: 46°F here, ideal at least 68°FWinters too cold: 8°C here, ideal at least 20°C
Beverage · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest-month average0
Here: 46°F · Ideal: at least 68°FHere: 8°C · Ideal: at least 20°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 50°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 10°C
- Average temperature0
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 75–84°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 24–29°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 59–98 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,500–2,500 mm · covered by irrigation
- Dry-season length100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at most 2 months · covered by irrigation
Humid lowland tropics, usually within 20° of the equator, ideally under shade trees.
Theobroma cacao. Sources: Wood & Lass, Cocoa (Longman, 4th ed.); FAO ECOCROP: Theobroma cacao.
- 0Won't grow
Cassava
Winters get too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters get too cold: 20°F here, ideal at least 41°FWinters get too cold: -7°C here, ideal at least 5°C
Root crop · Perennial
Why this score
- Average temperature5
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 72–86°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 22–30°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 41°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 5°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 39–79 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,000–2,000 mm · covered by irrigation
Very drought tolerant once established; harvested 8–24 months after planting.
Manihot esculenta. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Manihot esculenta; FAO 2013, Save and Grow: Cassava.
- 0Won't grow
Coffee (arabica)
Winters get too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters get too cold: 20°F here, ideal at least 39°FWinters get too cold: -7°C here, ideal at least 4°C
Beverage · Perennial
Why this score
- Average temperature75
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 64–72°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 18–22°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 39°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 4°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 55–91 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,400–2,300 mm · covered by irrigation
- Dry-season length100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at most 4 months · covered by irrigation
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C0
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 2 days
A short dry season (2–3 months) helps flowering happen all at once. Above ~73 °F average, quality and yield fall; frost kills.A short dry season (2–3 months) helps flowering happen all at once. Above ~23 °C average, quality and yield fall; frost kills.
Coffea arabica. Sources: DaMatta & Ramalho 2006, Impacts of drought and temperature stress on coffee physiology and production (Brazilian Journal of Plant Physiology); FAO ECOCROP: Coffea arabica.
- 0Won't grow
Macadamia
Winters get too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters get too cold: 20°F here, ideal at least 30°FWinters get too cold: -7°C here, ideal at least -1°C
Nut · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 30°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -1°C
- Average temperature75
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 64–77°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 18–25°C
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C0
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 5 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 47–98 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,200–2,500 mm · covered by irrigation
Subtropical: best in frost-free, humid coastal climates. Strong winds break limbs.
Macadamia integrifolia / M. tetraphylla. Sources: Hort Innovation / Australian Macadamia Society growing guides; FAO ECOCROP: Macadamia integrifolia.
- 0Won't grow
Mango
Winters get too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters get too cold: 20°F here, ideal at least 39°FWinters get too cold: -7°C here, ideal at least 4°C
Fruit · Perennial
Why this score
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 39°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 4°C
- Average temperature0
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 73–86°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 23–30°C
- Dry-season length100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at least 3 months
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 31–98 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 800–2,500 mm · covered by irrigation
A dry or cool spell before flowering gives a good crop; rain at flowering brings anthracnose.
Mangifera indica. Sources: Litz (ed.), The Mango: Botany, Production and Uses (CABI); FAO ECOCROP: Mangifera indica.
- 0Won't grow
Sugarcane
Winters get too cold
—
Ruled out. Winters get too cold: 20°F here, ideal at least 36°FWinters get too cold: -7°C here, ideal at least 2°C
Sugar crop · Perennial
Why this score
- Average temperature5
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 72–86°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 22–30°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)0
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 36°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least 2°C
- Frost-free days28
Here: 257 days · Ideal: at least 300 days
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 43–98 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,100–2,500 mm · covered by irrigation
A cooler, drier spell before harvest raises sugar content. Often irrigated.
Saccharum officinarum. Sources: FAO ECOCROP: Saccharum officinarum; FAO Crop Water Information: sugarcane.
- 0Won't grow
Tea
China type (var. sinensis)
Too many heat-stress days
—
Ruled out. Too many heat-stress days: 65 days here, ideal at most 10 days
Beverage · Perennial
Why this score
- Average temperature100
Here: 63°F · Ideal: 61–77°FHere: 17°C · Ideal: 16–25°C
- Coldest night of the year (average)100
Here: 20°F · Ideal: at least 14°FHere: -7°C · Ideal: at least -10°C
- Yearly rain100
Here: 15 in · Ideal: 59–118 inHere: 386 mm · Ideal: 1,500–3,000 mm · covered by irrigation
- Dry-season length100
Here: 5 months · Ideal: at most 2 months · covered by irrigation
- Days above 95°FDays above 35°C0
Here: 65 days · Ideal: at most 10 days
Needs acidic soil and steady rain; the finest teas come from cool highlands.
Camellia sinensis. Sources: Carr 1972, The climatic requirements of the tea plant: a review (Experimental Agriculture); FAO ECOCROP: Camellia sinensis.
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Planning to plant or buy land? We're building detailed reports for La Carolina: frost risk year by year, the right varieties and rootstocks, water needs, and how the climate is shifting by 2050.
How these scores work
Each crop has an ideal range and hard limits for things like winter cold, chill hours, summer heat and rain. A score of 100 means everything is in range; one hard limit crossed means 0. “Ideal” is a 100 with room to spare in every range, “Good fit” is 80 or more and “Marginal” 50–79. Annual crops are scored over their best growing season, which sets the planting month. Rainfed scores count rain only; irrigated scores assume you water when rain falls short. Pages open on irrigated where a year brings under 20 in500 mm of rain.
Climate comes from 1991–2020 monthly averages for the 4 km climate cell around the town. Frost dates, chill and hardiness zones are estimated from those averages by simulating daily weather, so check them against local records. Soil, slope and water rights matter as much as climate. Crop ranges from FAO ECOCROP and university extension guides (cited per crop).